Craftsman

How to Identify and Fix Common Gardening Problems ?

We provide a variety of viewpoints on how to identify and fix common gardening problems. Our sources include academic articles, blog posts, and personal essays from experienced gardeners :

If the engine dies when the blades engage, it could be the result of a damaged safety switch. The first step in assessing the safety switch is to make sure it is plugged in securely. The switch is located underneath the seat, and you may have to remove the seat to reach it.
This is most likely a safety switch issue. Usually the seat safety switch will cause this problem. The mower dies because it thinks nobody is sitting in the seat, and shuts off for safety reasons.
Check that all the safety switches are working correctly, it is possible the seat switch is bad or loose plug/ bad wire. Also if battery weak or charging system weak/faulty the clutch will stall out engine, charge battery up with charger and try.
A clogged carburetor is most commonly caused by leaving fuel in the lawn mower for a long period of time. Over time, some of the ingredients in the fuel may evaporate, leaving behind a thicker, stickier substance. This sticky fuel can clog up the carburetor and cause the engine to stall.
Clogged or Dirty Air Filters

It is one of the most common problems that cause lawnmowers to sputter. The mowers take the air from the surrounding through air filters and mix it with fuel inside the engine. So, if the air filter is clogged or dirty, it will affect the flow of air into the carburetor.

Over time, a spark plug will wear out. Eventually, the spark will no longer be powerful enough to fully ignite the air and fuel. You are likely to notice power loss including bogging down when cutting grass because of a worn spark plug. Removing and replacing a spark plug is easy.
Belt-the number one cause for your blades not to engage is that your belt is either stretched or loose causing it to slip or fall off completely. Belt could have snapped also. When you are trying to process too much grass/leaves they could pack up under your deck and push off your belt.
The most common reason for a surging lawn mower engine is a blockage in the fuel supply, but there are other possibilities: Bad gas. Bad spark plug. Dirty/faulty carburetor.

Discover Relevant Questions and Answers for Your Specific Issue

the most relevant questions and answers related to your specific issue

Blades wont ingage on my craftsman lawn tractor #917.274811?
ANSWER : After hitting a tree root, blades will not cut when I press to engage

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When you engage the blade the motor dies. Why
ANSWER : Most likely it is a bad safety switch under the seat. Please vote yes if this is helpful.

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When I hold the bar down that engages the blade it will not cut?
ANSWER : Is the blade sharp?

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I would like to replace the mulching blades on my Sears Craftsman riding mower with regular cutting blades. I can find plenty of sources for new mulching blades, but not cutting blades. My mower is a model 917.259541 tractor and the blades currently on it are part #134149. I want to make sure I get the right size to replace them. Also, is there a source for a bagging system for this mower, that won’t cost as much as one from Sears?
ANSWER : The straight blade for the 42 inch mower is 138971.They cut better and are easier to sharpen and you will need them if you use a gass catcher. If you do not want to use sears for parts you may be able to find good deals on ebay.

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Depress clutch, start mower, let out on clutch mower dies. Will run if parking brake is set. Turn blade on dies, put in gear dies. Could it be the switch on the seat?
ANSWER : Almost certainly it is the park break switch,i would start there.

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How do i add transmission oil – Ariens Lawn Tractor 46"" Riding Lawn Mower 936053"
ANSWER : Should a plug or cap on top of transaxle.

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Mower won’t turn over. It’s not the fuse. Also it was running good when it shut down.
ANSWER : You can jump it with your car to eliminate the battery, if it is not the battery then you might want to pull back on the lever that engages the blades, it start then . Good Luck Tim

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The cable broke which engages my blades on my craftsman 17 .5 hp 42 inch. I need a model part number for the same . I have lost my owners manual with that information
ANSWER : Locate mod # on tractor may be under seat
go to sears.com click on parts direct and enter that number and it will take you to the parts section for that mower.

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My name is June Strandberg, and I am a florist and gardener in San Francisco. I have been working in the industry for five years, and I love helping people find the perfect floral arrangement for their special occasions. I am also skilled in troubleshooting and fixing gardening tools, so if you are ever having trouble with your tools, please don't hesitate to reach out to me.